Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne insists he has no problem with Pep Guardiola despite a “mystery” issue keeping him sidelined.
The Belgian playmaker has had his last couple of campaigns punctured by injury. The 33-year-old has made just six starts in all competitions so far this term.
But De Bruyne returned to form at the right time in midweek as he notched a goal and an assist in City’s 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest - their first victory in seven games. Some have suggested that there is a long-running issue between Guardiola and De Bruyne, hence his staggered return to the side.
But De Bruyne is sure that is not the case. He also revealed simply why he had been sidelined - a sports hernia keeping the Belgian playmaker out of contention.
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Speaking to BBC Sport, De Bruyne said: "It's been an uncomfortable injury, a mystery and a puzzle. I'm getting better slowly. I was able to play a big amount of minutes and not feel bad.
"It's a relief. Most of us had careers before City so I've played against relegation. It can be way worse. It's been a tough time. We've not been at the level. We've had injuries etc.
"Today is hopefully a first step to improve. It's good to change the momentum. In some games we lost there were periods we weren't playing bad.
"I know a lot has been said. There have never been issues between me and Pep. He knows I've been struggling [with a sports hernia]. It's painful and uncomfortable.
De Bruyne insists there is no issue with Guardiola ( Image: Getty Images)
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“I want to be back on the pitch. I felt good at the start of the season. I'm working hard to get back with my body. Maybe it's going to be an up and down moment from now. Hopefully I can get back to my body with not much pain and then I'll be fine."
City boss Guardiola also offered his verdict on De Bruyne’s productive return. And he too did not suggest there was any issue between the duo.
"I am so happy he is back," said Guardiola. "He played 75 fantastic minutes. He deserves the best because he's a lovely guy and has been massively important for so many years since he arrived."
Guardiola and De Bruyne will be hoping that he can extend his form in City’s next Premier League outing. They travel to Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
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